Bombing of Darwin 81st anniversary remembered across the Top End
Several events across the Top End will commemorate the 81st anniversary of the Bombing of Darwin. Find out how you can take part here.
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The 81st anniversary of the Bombing of Darwin will commemorate the heavy price civilians paid as well as the military efforts.
Darwin City Lord Mayor Kon Vatskalis said half of the Darwin community was evacuated after the February 19, 1942 attack.
“Despite assurances they would be well cared for, in so many cases that did not eventuate,” Mr Vatskalis said.
“The trials endured by Darwin’s wartime refugees were tough. As were the lives awaiting them on their return.
“So many Darwin families have stories of the tests their parents and grandparents endured during that period.
“This is all part of our story and it’s something we must all remember.”
Mr Vatskalis said he anticipated up to 4000 people at this year’s service at The Cenotaph.
“February 19, 1942, and the first Japanese bombing raids on Darwin, mark the day we experienced the first ever enemy attack on Australia soil,” Mr Vatskalis said.
“The annual Bombing of Darwin Day is one of the most important chapters in the story of our city.”
Opposition leader Peter Dutton and Defence Personnel Minister Matt Keogh – who will be representing Prime Minister Anthony Albanese – will be in Darwin for the ceremonies.
Territorians and visitors will have plenty of opportunity to commemorate the day and learn about the tragedy that changed the Top End at several events leading up to and during the Bombing of Darwin anniversary.
BOMBING OF DARWIN EVENTS
Sea Darwin’s Bombing of Darwin Cruise
When: February 15-18 (11am-12pm) and February 19 (11.30am-12.30pm).
Where: Stokes Hill Wharf.
Cost: $25.
Bombing of Darwin Experience
When: February 18-20 (9am-4pm)
Where: Royal Flying Doctor Service Tourist Facility, Stokes Hill Wharf.
Cost: $28 per adult, $16 per child, $23 per senior, student, or concession, $70 per family (50 per cent off full-priced tickets).
Defence of Darwin Experience
When: February 18, 20 (9.30am-4pm) and February 19 (10am-3pm).
Where: Darwin Military Museum, East Point Reserve.
Cost: $20 per adult, $15 per pensioner, $10 per child, $45 per family (50 per cent off full-priced tickets).
USS Peary Memorial Service
When: February 19 (8.15am-9am).
Where: USS Peary Memorial, Bicentennial Park.
Cost: Free.
Bombing of Darwin Day Commemorative Service
When: February 19 (9.30am-11am).
Where: The Cenotaph.
Cost: Free.
The Bombing of Darwin and the Chinese Experience
When: February 19 (9am-2pm).
Where: NT Chinese Museum.
Cost: Gold coin donation.
Ecumenical Service
When: February 20 (10am-11am).
Where: Adelaide River War Civilian Cemetery.
Cost: Free.
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